“I think if we’re going to start contracting out the security of the flying public, then why don’t we contract out the FBI or DEA or Secret Service or Capitol Hill Police?” he said in an interview.

Costello, a former police officer, said screening should remain in the hands of trained professionals, not companies looking to make a profit.

“Security is, in my judgment, a function for professional law enforcement officials and should not go to the lowest bidder and that’s what you have when you contract out,” he said. “The safety of the traveling public should not be jeopardized in order to save money.”

Airlines were in charge of hiring screening companies prior to the creation of TSA in late 2001.